This year at ASCM CONNECT, we caught up with some of the supply chain sector’s leading executives to learn more about them, their analysis of the trends shaping the industry, and how their organisations are responding to the challenges ahead. Amir Hemani is a Consulting Manager in Velosio with 15+ years of experience in business applications. Velosio specialises in Microsoft cloud ERP and CRM solutions, as well as productivity and analytics tools like Microsoft 365, Power Apps, Power Automate, Power BI, and Power Virtual Agents. Velosio comprises more than 400 members and supports over 4,000 clients in their digital transformation initiatives.
What are your biggest takeaways from this year’s ASCM CONNECT and how they relate to the broader supply chain landscape?
The focus on digital transformation and sustainability, as well as the practical case studies on how companies are leveraging AI and latest trends to solve complex supply chain problems.
The supply chain space is in a state of transformation, adapting to new disruptions and leveraging technology to build resilience. Flexibility and innovation are now core to modern supply chains. Supply chains have learned the importance of flexibility, resilience, and digital adoption. Companies that invested in these areas were better prepared for black swan events, and modern supply chains are now more agile and capable of handling future disruptions.
Sustainability is also increasingly non-negotiable. Companies face pressures from both regulators and consumers to adopt sustainable practices, and ignoring this can lead to reputational damage and regulatory penalties.
Where are generative AI and data analytics having the biggest impact in the supply chain?
Generative AI helps in demand forecasting, procurement optimization, and risk management. It enables faster decision-making by analysing vast data sets in real time, something that was far more manual just a few years ago.
Of course, data security and trust in AI-generated outcomes are common concerns. Companies need to choose platforms that prioritise data governance and transparency to address these issues. Many companies have siloed and unstructured data, making it hard to gain actionable insights. Generative AI and knowledge graphs can organise and structure this data, providing a more holistic view of the supply chain.
How do you approach change management and get people on board with innovation?
Effective change management and continuous training are key. Involving employees early in the transformation process and demonstrating how technology can improve their work leads to better adoption.
Promoting the dynamic and tech-driven nature of modern supply chains is crucial. Offering mentorship, flexible career paths, and emphasising the impact supply chains have on global issues will attract younger talent.
What strategies can be implemented to support the supply chain sector going forward?
Embracing advanced technologies like AI, and IoT, while also promoting collaboration across the supply chain ecosystem, will drive the next wave of innovation and efficiency.
- AI in Supply Chain
- Sustainability
